SUMMARY:  This ride is an excellent opportunity to discover what Colorado has to offer on a day ride, mind you, a long day.  Only in Colorado can you accomplish such a challenge.  Imagine, ten mountain passes, ascending over 100,000 feet total elevation in a single day on a motorcycle, all paved roads with some of the best scenery in the state.  The ride is easily accomplished without excessive speeds.  You just need to start early and keep moving.  It’s not a Deals Gap or a Coronado Trail, but you’ll get your fill of twisties and sweepers, plus see some of Colorado's beautiful mountains and outstanding scenery -- and perhaps some nice Fall colors!   You'll also get a pretty good thrill!

Keep in mind, this will be a long day (8-12 hours, so get an early start) and about 450 miles, but there are a couple of opportunities to reduce the overall distance and cut the ride short.  Since most of the ride is above 8,000 feet elevation, remember to apply lots of sunscreen and drink lots of water to guard against high altitude headache.  There are several locations along the route for gas, food and rest stops.  Don’t forget your camera and bring your rain suit plus some warm clothing for extra layers to be safe--sometimes it can be rather chilly at these elevations.  Another note of caution, watch for rocks and sand on the roads and many of the roads do not have guard rails and … let's just say, pay attention.  There are plenty of areas to stop and enjoy the view.

After the ride and over dinner, think about your accomplishment.  Ten mountain passes with a combined total elevation of 104,243 feet -- that's something that few folks can boast about.  Colorado:  Life (and Riding) Is Good!!!!